Orders for U.S. durable goods probably declined in January for the first time in four months as aircraft demand slowed, economists said before a government report today. Bookings for goods meant to last at least three years fell 1 percent after a 3 percent increase the prior month, according to the median forecast of economists surveyed by Bloomberg News. Demand for durable goods excluding transportation equipment was little changed after four consecutive gains, economists projected. Home prices fell and consumer confidence increased, other reports may show. Factories remain at the forefront of the expansion that ... (full story)